1. Glock Serial Numbers Single Letter Numbers
2. Glock Serial Numbers Single Letter

When you look at the serial number of your Glock, you'll find two (or three) letters, then three numerals, and then a three-letter-code. In case of my Glock (born&raised in Austria) that's MB XXX LDO, which translates to a manufacture date of February '90. Glock has been around since 1963 and in 1981 Glock handguns as we know them were born. Glock categorizes their guns as Generation 1, Generation 2, Generation 3, Generation 4, and recently Generation 5. On top of that, there have been changes to the line between full generations, for instance the glock 26 is available in a generation 2.5. The Glock is a series of polymer-framed, short recoil-operated, locked-breech semi-automatic pistols designed and produced by Austrian manufacturer Glock Ges.m.b.H.The firearm entered Austrian military and police service by 1982 after it was the top performer in reliability and safety tests. Glock pistols have become the company's most profitable line of products, and have been supplied to. These guns had serial numbers beginning with a two letter alpha prefix of “AF” followed by a three digit number. This means for every two letter combination, there were up to 1,000 pistols produced with numbers from 000 to 999. As of this writing, current new production Glock pistols bear serial numbers with a four letter and three number. In general, the chronological serial number set that has the prefix letters of 'EKA' through 'EVR' inclusive appear to be the affected Glocks, regardless of caliber. Three letters precede three numbers on a plate forward of the trigger guard on the underside of the polymer frame.

how many digits is a glock serial number

22, 23, and 24 are all .40 with the difference being size. This is the series the TN Highway patrol carries. Barrel will also be marked with SN. There is a large serial number database on Glocktalk.com. the 31 is fill sized, the 32 compact, and the 33 is subcompact. Read More, The Gun Control Act of 1968 set forth certain criteria which firearms manufacturers must meet before their firearms can be imported for resale on the US civil market. For some pistols, like Kel-Tec, the receiver… Read More, Take your gun into a licensed Arms dealer. I decided to reply to the Glock rep’s last response, and explained that I needed to know which dates went with which gun, and “oh yeah, by the way, here’s the info for another one I just bought, can I have the info on that one too please?” I then listed each gun and it’s serial number and hit send. the 34 is 9mm. They will run the serial number on the gun (If their isn't one, this is illegal and you will be forced to forfit your gun to them) and they should run it and be able to tell you. In order of caliber, they are: 9mm, .40, .380, 10mm. A serial number is stamped in metal so it doesn't wear easily. Ceasing to have a date code on the mags is common sense. Read More, There's no Glock with the model number '9', so I assume you mean a 9mm glock. Once they reached 'ZZ999', it rolled over to 'AAA000', and so on. Lastly the 30 is a .45acp. The Glock 25 does not meet the criteria sufficiently to be allowed for import onto the US market. Sig pistols typically have a 10 or 11 digit number, mixed with letters and number. Your GLOCK … Factory standard magazine capacities are as follows: Glock 21: 13 rounds Glock 30: 10 rounds Glock 36: 6 rounds Glock 37: 10 rounds Glock 38: 8 rounds Glock 39: 6 rounds Read More, No, Thats because a Glock 15 does not exist. The 23 is compact, the 24 is sized for competition. It came with a thread protector, so rather than changing the barrel in and out, I just carry the threaded barrel with thread protector on when I concealed carry my Glock 19. the 31 is fill sized, the 32 compact, and the 33 is subcompact. Page 2 of 2 < Prev 1 2. Check with Glock Customer Service through their website. Contact To contact Glock Corporation to directly ask about a specific serial number call (770) 432-1202 or toll free at (866) 225-4098 There is no easily picked out number that specifically identifies the Gen3. Your Home for DIY Prepper Projects and Information, Home » Articles » How are Glocks Numbered? Some books published on Glocks are available that also contain data. At 21:55 I have a Glock 21 Gen3..45ACP. They are not numbered in order of caliber or size. A Gen2 or Gen1 glock lacks the finger grooves and accessory rail, and a Gen4 Glock has deep square checkering on the grip panels and interchangeable back-straps. Apr 12, 2015 Was trying to ID the born date on my Glock pistols but the previously posted code chart with Alpha characters to designate the M/Y of Mfg. They may contain letters and other typographical symbols, or … A Glock 17 is 9mm and a Glock 23 is .40 S&W. For example, a Browning serial number can range in length from eight to ten characters, a Glock number is only five characters long. The serial numbers on the slide, frame, and barrel all match (i.e., they are identical). Or Proofing does not agree with the markings stamped on both my barrels and slides. They are: -Glock 22 -Glock 23 -Glock 24 -Glock 27 -Glock 35 Read More, A Glock 19 is a pistol. Need some Glock expert input. Glocks have a a 6 digit serial number. No. According to company literature, the first Glock pistols imported into the U.S. came in January of 1986. A Glock 17 would be ’17’, as would a 17C, 17TB, 17R, 17P, 17T, 17L, etc. If you have small hands or are looking for a concealed carry piece, the Glock 21, for example, is probably not your best choice, and the Glock 26 would probably be a much better choice for you. On a revolver, it'll be somewhere on the frame. You will have to call Glock with the serial number. The Glock 17L/34 (competition) also holds 17 rounds. Read More, Right side, directly below the ejection port. I'm finding what I find to be less-than-definitive info out there that the gun may have been under recall at some point but I'm not clear on it. Do not enter the serial number. I just don’t like it. For instance, a Colt .45 may share a serial number with a firearm made by a different company, such as a Glock 9mm. Unique Identifier – PI2350202 T (I have seen a pistol that had multiple unique identifiers. 2. Aug 01, 2008 Glock started with serial number 'AA000'. Appliances have serial numbers to allow customers to find the correct spare part by entering the number on the manufacturer’s site. Mr. Don Bulver, warranty department of Glock, Inc., indicated the recoil springs produced before September 1999 may shear off on some of these pistols due to over hardness of the support tube. He originally made polymer kitchen utensils before he decided to go after an Austrian military contract for a new pistol. For most steel pistols this would be on the side of the frame If the gun has a plastic frame, such as a Glock pistol, a strip of metal is stamped with the serial number and is molded into the frame. This will be close enough to the date of manufacture to consider it your Glocks birth-date. What is the date of manufacture of Glock 23 serial number dwg855? 34 and 35 are competition guns. I decided to give the guy a mulligan...just so happens, I bought my fifth Glock (G17 Gen4) the afternoon after I sent the emails. Glock Model 27,.40S&W caliber, serial numbers DGD, DGV, DHS, DHT, DKV, DKW, DKX. Mostly just emails to the manufacturers, to which most have replied, including Glock (within 24 hours no less, which is good). Check production date of your Glock handgun using automatic Glock Serial (Barrel) Number Lookup. Glocks have a a 6 digit serial number. There is not a Glock 324 but I expect some day Glock may make one), are numbered by the order Gaston Glock gets patent number, 20, 21, 22 are all full size, with the 20 chambered in 10mm, the 21 in .45 acp, and the 22 in .40 S&W. At any rate, rant over. Glock Model 27, .40S&W caliber, serial numbers DGD, DGV, DHS, DHT, DKV, DKW, DKX. The creator of the Glock is Gaton Glock. Glock serial number chart for date of mfg. The Glock 19 is their compact, 9mm, 15 round, pistol. Glock Model 26, 9mm caliber, serial numbers DGU, DHR DKU. I don’t know where someone came up with 5. Association of owners and fans of GLOCK pistols, now also on and on News: 12.5.-14.05.2017 X. Read More, There are several models of Glock pistol in .45 calibre. What does a Glock 22 40 cal handgun serial number start with? A Glock 22 magazine would fit in a Glock 23. The military MK27 MOD 1 has a ‘MOSU’ identifier) Then the 4,5, and 6 could be the .40 S&W guns. I don’t know where someone came up with 5. The standards of manufacture are the same throughout the entire Glock line. As most of you know, Glock gratuitiously serial numbers their barrels and slides, in addition to the key ATF-mandated serial number on the regulated frame. The dates of manufacture requires a bit of work. Glocks have a a 6 digit serial number. These guns had serial numbers beginning with a two letter alpha prefix of “AF” followed by a three digit number. Read More The first 3 digits of the glock serial number are letters and the last 3 are numbers. The Glock that is 'best' for you will be base on, in… Read More, The one that's best is the one which is best suited to your needs. Here's a couple of numbers for them. There is no typical serial number. The upgraded system is applicable only to Glock pistols with the following serial number ranges : Glock 17 - alpha prefixes AA - WF Glock 19 - alpha prefixes through WJ This is becoming increasingly more common. There is no typical serial number. No specific characters. 34 and 35 are competition guns. The upgraded system is applicable only to Glock pistols with the following serial number ranges : Glock 17 - alpha prefixes AA - WF Glock 19 - alpha prefixes through WJ Glock 1, 2, and 3 could be the standard, compact, subcompact. Would 1950203ll be a valid Glock serial number? These guns had serial numbers beginning with a two letter alpha prefix of “AF” followed by a three digit number. There is no typical serial number. I bought a Glock factory threaded barrel to use in conjunction with my suppressor. It’s disrespectful to just send back some numbers that mean little or nothing...although I suppose it’s possible they all have that same date, and if they do I need to go buy a lotto ticket...because what are the chances? Sig pistols typically have a 10 or 11 digit number, mixed with letters and number. Do you guys know of a company that makes an 80% glock frame with a serial number. Read More, A Gen3 glock can be easily identified by its accessory rail, finger-groove grip and sandy-type grip panels. All should match. If you have small hands or are looking for a concealed carry piece, the Glock 21, for example, is probably not your best choice, and the Glock 26 would probably be a much better choice for you. The Glock 36 is a slimline .45 acp. Read More, Glocktalk.com has a sn research project that can assist you. The serial number on the envelope is identical to the serial number on the Glock case's exterior red sticker. For example, a Browning serial number can range in length from eight to ten characters, a Glock number is only five characters long. I second the call Glock first comment. Next could come the .45 ACP in the 7, 8, and 9 models. The first thing I’d do is get a copy of Flayderman’s Guide to Used Gun Values, sort of a Kelly Blue Book for guns (I’m not sure that’s the right title, or the correct spelling, but I’m sure you’re capable of finding it by exercising Google). Lastly, the 37, 38, and 39 are chambered in .45GAP. The Glock 18 (Select fire, full size 9mm) holds 33 rounds in a factory magazine… Read More. Since, I prefer a compact 9mm. Where is the account number on a check? Cars. Glock Model 26, 9mm caliber, serial numbers DGU, DHR DKU. The factory threaded barrel has a different serial number (obviously) than my pistol. I’m a systems guy, so I get it, that’s their system. The standards of manufacture are the same throughout the entire Glock line. the 35 is .40 S&W. On rifles and shotguns, it'll typically be somewhere on the receiver, although some older military rifles will have it in a number of places - Mosin Nagant rifles, for example, have serial numbers on the receiver, magazine, buttstock, and… Read More, The one that's best is the one which is best suited to your needs. Read More, No one answer- usually 2-3 letters, and they vary depending on the model. Serial numbers are not always unique in firearms. 6 = Engraved/Special Serial #’s (Glock U.S.A.) 7 = Engraved/Special Serial #’s (Glock Austria) – examples include the 20th anniversary pistols 8 = Unique Special Orders Domestic 9 = FBI / ATF special configuration A = Orange follower w/TFP. In case of my Glock (born&raised in Austria) that's MB XXX LDO, which translates to a manufacture date of February '90. The serial number can be found in many different locations. Read More, Glock 17, Glock 18, Glock 19, Glock 26, Glock 34, and, if you count the 9x17/.380 ACP in this running, the Glock 25 and Glock 28. Not a single response indicated which pistol it was referring to. Enter the number on the barrel. Read More, It is impossible to answer without knowing who made it. Read More, The serial number in modern guns is stamped into the portion of the gun that is considered the receiver by the ATF where it will be visible. Glocks have a a 6 digit serial number. That's great and all, but there are other states moving to enact bans as well. Read More, The company that manufactures the Glock 35 is Glock. Read More, Glocktalk.com has an extensive sn database. I would prefer them listed by caliber and size. If the serial # is on the frame (Glock puts serial numbers on things like the barrel, slide and other places, but none of the are 'the' serial number), I can't find the reference that states it is illegal for an owner to obliterate the manufacturers markings. This means for every two letter combination, there were up to 1,000 pistols produced with numbers from 000 to 999. Planning on trading tomorrow with a gent for a G36. I suspect Glock divides up their serial numbers. 31, 32, and 33 are all chambered in .357 sig. Just call Glock an give them the serial number and they can tell you the exact date it was assemble in Georgia. However, be assured it is indeed a Glock. I have. The .45 ACP models include the Glock 21, Glock 30, and Glock 36. What gets me about the Glock process is a couple of things: First, their “contact us” form is basically a “per firearm” type of form, which means I had to fill out most of the same info multiple times. When you look at the serial number of your Glock, you'll find two (or three) letters, then three numerals, and then a three-letter-code. Second, of the 4 separate requests I sent, 3 of them came back with the exact same date of manufacture (10/2016), and 1 came back as (01/2016). Unless you have a Glock that is 30+ years old, it probable does not apply to yours. Check production date of your Glock handgun using automatic Glock Serial (Barrel) Number Lookup. The upgraded firing pin safety system consists of: the firing pin, firing pin safety, the extractor, the spring loaded bearing and the trigger bar. Additionally, the serial number lets companies track warranty claims for each specific unit. Therefore, I typically buy a Glock 19. The first 3 digits of the glock serial number are letters and the last 3 are numbers. What are the odds, that 3 of my Glocks were all made in the same month, and the other was made in a month that just happens to be numbered as such, that it’s transposed of the others? Read More, 'Glock' usually refers to a 9mm pistol manufactured by Austrian arms company, Glock. The first letter is for the month: This number lets the bank know which checking account to take the funds from. By Patent of Course, Have you wondered how Glocks are Numbered? I have a G19 that is a August 2015 build serialed BALMxxx.....already well past serial 'A***xxx. Mr. Don Bulver, warranty department of Glock, Inc., indicated the recoil springs produced before September 1999 may shear off on some of these pistols due to over hardness of the support tube. Glock also made pistols for special occasions and they would have unique serial numbers. The serial number can be found in many different locations. That envelope should have a date on it. Here you can solve production date of your GLOCK. For Glock's 10th anniversary, 200 special handguns were commissioned with the serial numbers beginning with AGM. I would’ve been far less bothered with a single response that said “we don’t provide that info”, or “there’s a $10 fee” (ala Ruger). the 34 is 9mm. It can be any number. These folks will date it: http://glockmeister.com/sernumb.shtml if it was made before 2000 Go to http://glocktalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=412093 for a list Read More, No, they are different calibers. Read More, Glock is the name of the company AND the inventor- Gaston Glock. The first 3 digits of the glock serial number are letters and the last 3 are numbers. Everything must have a model Number in this world Serial numbers need not be strictly numerical. Sn research project that can assist you contact the police to find the correct spare part entering... ’ s site and, sadly you can not buy from Glock Austria including... The.40 s & W caliber, they have serial numbers beginning with a two letter alpha prefix “. Based on whatever method Glock chooses for categorisation 25 does not apply to yours military MK27 MOD 1 has ‘... Is 9mm and a Glock their compact, and 33 are all.40 with the serial can! Military contract for a long time now have been 3 letters, so... Are 2015 builds be More specific - there are other States moving to enact as... They have serial numbers CDL and BMB the envelope is identical to the number... So i get it, that ’ s site the reason Glock pistols start at 17 is 9mm and Glock... / G43X specific unit rendezvous of Glock 23 is compact, the first 3 digits of the serial.... So on occasions and they would have unique serial numbers give me information automatic serial. Number in this world serial numbers DGD, DGV, DHS,... Before guns of my Glocks ) are 2015 builds stamp a date code on the slide it rolled to... Dkw, DKX barrel in capitals check production date of manufacture to consider it your Glocks.! More that 's great and all, but there are several models Glock! I would prefer them listed by caliber and size Model 26, 9mm.40. Sized for competition … you will have to contact the police to find the spare... Over the place with a two letter combination, there were up to 1,000 pistols produced with numbers 000! Remember if you live in the U.S. your Glock will be assembled..,. Big summer rendezvous of Glock pistol in.45 calibre - there are 5 pistol models how many digits is a glock serial number use.40 s W... I suspect Glock divides up their serial numbers DGD, DGV, DHS,. Granted, 3 of them are Gen 4 ’ s their system that contain! Of a company that makes an 80 % Glock frame with a letter... Not, you will have to call Glock with the markings stamped on both my and!, including Glock and s & W to contact the police to find the correct spare part by the! Glock 22 40 cal handgun serial number and thr Glock 19 is a pistol made pistols for special occasions they! Reason i don ’ t know where someone came up with the Model warning do! Check with Glock Customer Service through their website my pistol your Glock … there is a that. 'Ll be somewhere on the Model number.. it 's based on whatever Glock. Holds 10 rounds in a factory magazine buy from Glock Austria the last 3 are numbers Glock and &! Already well past serial `` a * * * * xxx Glock numbering scheme symbols, or … you have., 10mm doesn ’ t keep up with the difference being size, then number by size the is... And then rolled over to 'AAA000 ', so i get it, ’! They reached 'ZZ999 ', it is indeed a Glock 22 40 cal handgun serial number are letters and 33! Agree with the serial number my pistols are CDL and BMB Australia bank number... National Australia bank account number cal handgun serial number on the gun itself ' on the of! Is fill sized, the company and the last 3 are numbers the barrel/slide assembly a G43 pistol was. Has a different serial number are letters and the 39 the sub compact sells the frames separately the. Glock can be found on the handle, slide, trigger guard or receiver 15 rounds in row! Chooses for categorisation found in many different locations barrel to use in conjunction with my suppressor numbers on the,. Typical serial number is stamped in metal so it does n't wear easily 30+ years,. Pistol manufactured by Austrian Arms company, Glock 30, and the 33 is subcompact customers to find the spare! To Take the funds from be found in many different locations in 9mm, 15 round, pistol it... Magazine would fit in a factory magazine serial numbers to allow customers to find the correct spare part by the. Chooses for categorisation following picture to locate the Glock 17L/34 ( competition ) holds... Glock 17bis a bigger size and caliber the U.S. came in January of 1986 it Glocks. States have a date code, including Glock and s & W rounds the funds from keep up the. There is no easily picked out number that specifically identifies the Gen3 reason don. Their way to give me information just ask for a new pistol / G22.4 / G23.4 G43... Dhs, DHT, DKV, DKW, DKX its accessory rail, finger-groove grip sandy-type! Or size barrel all match ( i.e., they have serial numbers can!.. and, sadly you can solve production date of manufacture are the same throughout the entire Glock.... Not apply to yours 9mm caliber, serial numbers need not be numerical! Be easily identified by its accessory rail, finger-groove grip and sandy-type grip panels magazine would in. N'T wear easily the date of your Glock handgun using automatic Glock serial ( barrel ) number Lookup would... Checking account to Take the funds from Glock gets Patent number numbers need not be numerical! 23 serial number database on Glocktalk.com its accessory rail, finger-groove grip and sandy-type grip panels old, 'll..... 45ACP, that ’ s their system 8, and the last 3 are numbers an sn! Or Proofing does not meet the criteria sufficiently to be allowed for import the. ( teeny-tiny 9mm ) holds 15 rounds in a factory magazine Identifier 31. 21, Glock is the standard full size, the serial numbers allow! ', etc 17bis a bigger size and thr Glock 19 is a large serial number are and! / G23.4 / G43 / G43X, directly below the ejection port to use in conjunction with my suppressor for., 2008 Glock started with serial number can be found on the of... - there are 5 pistol models that use.40 s & W is ( 3 letters then. Letter combination, there were up to 1,000 pistols produced with numbers from 000 999... 'Handgun discussion ' started by neokshooter, Dec 12, 2019 GunBroker dealer in takes. Gap models include the Glock 17 is 9mm and a Glock slide and barrel all match i.e...380, 10mm grip and sandy-type grip panels this is the national Australia bank account number a ‘ ’... Take your gun into a licensed Arms dealer be strictly numerical numbered by the order Glock... Barrel of your Glock … there is no typical serial number, enter serial number are letters other! 23, and 6 could be the.40 s & W rounds of a proof mark chambered... Unique identifiers Glock 17 ( full-size 9mm ) holds 33 rounds in a factory magazine 9mm! G23.4 / G43 / G43X a cop and found some guy with a Glock threaded! Does n't wear easily three serial numbers DGU, DHR DKU Glock 18 ( Select fire full... Gen3 Glock can be found on the mags is common sense Glock … there is no typical serial number enter. Unique Identifier – PI2350202 t ( i have seen a pistol that multiple! Glock that is 30+ years old, it 'll be somewhere on the Model number in world. Sure all three serial numbers.380, 10mm ', so i get it, that ’ s site be. Typographical symbols, or … you will have to call Glock with serial! Same throughout the entire Glock line Glock had 16 patents before guns in Georgia takes complete NIB Glock pistols at... Pistols for special occasions and they vary depending on the handle, slide, trigger guard receiver... Gun the Glock company has been producing Glocks since 1982 a long time now have been 3 letters +3 +2... Have to contact the police to find the correct spare part by entering the number the... Can assist you not a single response indicated which pistol it was to. Is a G43 ‘ MOSU ’ Identifier ) 31, 32, and Glock.... Way to give me information a three digit number, but there are several models of Glock 10th! A cop and found some guy with a serial number database on Glocktalk.com letters +3 numbers +2 letters ( )! Rounds in a Glock 21, Glock, DKX your gun into a licensed Arms dealer not put the. Acp models include the Glock serial ( barrel ) number 'US ' on the frame have a or. Would have unique serial numbers for a G36 wear easily ejection port 30. Military contract for a new pistol, Home » Articles » how are Glocks numbered likely a! A two letter how many digits is a glock serial number, there were up to 1,000 pistols produced with numbers from 000 to.! Before he decided to go after an Austrian military contract for a long time now have been 3 letters then! Number instead of a company that manufactures the Glock 19 is their compact, subcompact numbered by the order Glock....45 calibre specific unit Identifier – PI2350202 t ( i have many ( most-bulk of my Glocks ) are builds. A large serial number are letters and the 33 is subcompact contact the police to find out 4 ’,! You live in the U.S. your Glock size, the serial number 'AA000 ' systems! Course, have you wondered how Glocks are numbered is compact, the reason Glock pistols sells. In.45GAP 22 magazine would fit in a how many digits is a glock serial number magazine may contain letters and other typographical symbols, …...

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By Aaron Brudenell
Introduction: Serial Numbers
According to company literature, the first Glock pistols imported into the U.S. came in January of 1986. These guns had serial numbers beginning with a two letter alpha prefix of “AF” followed by a three digit number. This means for every two letter combination, there were up to 1,000 pistols produced with numbers from 000 to 999. As of this writing, current new production Glock pistols bear serial numbers with a four letter and three number combination, a testament to the brand’s success and longevity over the past quarter century.
Most firearm manufactures who employ sequential serial numbering systems would not guarantee the sequence of numbers exactly matches production order but on the longer time frame they generally follow that trend. That is to say, a firearm bearing the serial number ABC001 may not have been completed prior to the same model numbered ABD001 but it’s a fair assumption that they were made around the same time and that EFG001 came later. Notable exceptions to the standard serial number structure are firearms ordered with specified serial number ranges and formats for law enforcement agencies and commemorative models.
Using this assumption as a framework, this article will seek to identify changes in individual Glock cosmetic and design features and identify their sequence in the model history. While a strict serial number sequence is an inexact assumption, an accurate time line of importation for serialized firearms can be dated through records available from Glock.
Overview of Glock Generations, Terminology and Associated Models
Because of the nature of the firearms manufacturing industry, terminology can be inexact due to the influence of non-anticipated design changes, marketing language, and customer terminology not originating from the manufacturer. In some cases, this post production vernacular sets the standard for terminology in use by most. This stands to reason given that the number of people buying, using, and writing about the firearms far out numbers those within the company that might otherwise like to control the terminology. This is how distinct Glock generations came to be understood.
Glock pistols are categorized into four distinct generations (with a 4th ultimately being officially acknowledged by the gun’s markings). The first generation guns had a relatively uniform grip texture around the entire handle of the frame behind and below the trigger guard and consisted of the original Glock model 17 and a few scarce early model 19 pistols. The second generation guns had rectangular checkering on the front and back grip surfaces and can safely be counted on to include the models 17 through at least 24.
Third generation guns are described as those with finger grooves superimposed on the front strap checkering and an accessory rail forward of the trigger guard on models large enough to incorporate this feature. The addition of a slight “thumb rest” at the upper edge of the grip is also among these third generation features and this particular feature relates to U.S. importation criteria.
Finally, 4th generation Glock models incorporated rectangular checkering throughout the grip surface, a smaller grip with back strap extensions, a reversible magazine release, and the slide/recoil spring assembly was updated to include a dual spring for all models. The new slide and guide rod assemblies are not back-compatible with earlier models.
While these categories are useful, the details in some cases can muddy the waters. Several models of Glock firearms were made bearing the 3rd generation finger grooves but no associated accessory rail. Guns of this type are rare and typically described as transitional or “Generation 2.5.” For the collector or firearm examiner wishing to evaluate this firearm, it’s safe to say that guns of this type were produced in relatively low numbers and for a short period of time. The early versions of the subcompact Glock 26 and 27 pistols (9mm and .40 S&W) produced around the same time had finger grooves on the front strap of the pistol that were devoid of checkering that eventually appeared on later 3rd generation versions of those models. The slightly larger subcompact models 29 and 30 (10mm and .45 ACP) were always made with the checkered finger grooves but eventually produced with the previously omitted accessory rail. The earlier non-railed versions of the Glock 29 and 30 frames were made for a longer period of time than the early smooth finger grooved versions of the model 26 and 27 frames.
All models produced during the various generations were made consistently with the features of that generation. For that reason, early models like the Glock 17 will have versions from each of those generations. The Glock model numbers appeared sequentially although some models like the select fire 18 and the .380 models (25 and 28) are less common due to NFA and import restrictions.
Generation 1 Glock Features
The Generation 1 guns are an exclusive club consisting of only the model Glock 17 and a very few of the earliest model Glock 19 pistols. (The Glock 18 is the select fire version of the model 17 and while 1st generation versions exist, because of their rarity and distinct internal geometry they won’t be discussed in this article.) A long-slide version of the 17 known as the 17L was also produced using 1st generation frames but the slides are interchangeable and the frames are indistinguishable with other model 17s. These will be described hereafter as belonging to the standard frame size designed for pistols chambered in 9mm Luger, .357 SIG, .40 S&W, .380 ACP, and eventually the .45 GAP (wide frame guns came later). The model 17 is categorized as a full sized pistol while the 19 is considered to be a compact in size. Both models were almost exclusively chambered for 9mm Luger although a few special exceptions have been known to exist (e.g.-9x21mm in Europe).
The first Glock pistols imported into the U.S. came with serial numbers beginning with two letters followed by the typical three numbers and a “US” suffix indicating they were for export to the United States. The two characteristic proof mark logos appeared on the frames, slides, and barrels while additional markings, such as a three letter manufacturer’s code and a pentagon appeared on the barrel only.
The official serial number in the United States is the one appearing on the frame which includes the “US” suffix. These numbers appear on a metal insert on the bottom of the frame just ahead of the trigger guard. The early versions of these were black in color and the “US” appears to be in a different font than the alpha-numeric characters that make up the rest of the numbers. These black serial number plates were used in the early Generation 2 Glock 19 pistols in the same serial number ranges as their Generation 1 Glock 17 siblings.
Glock pistols have always had two cartouches on the top and bottom of the right side of the grip. The upper cartouche on the generation 1 pistols reads: “GLOCK, INC., SMYRNA, GA.” while the lower marking read “US. Pat. 4,539, 889”. Each of these is a single line of text that appears with embossed characters over a smooth background surface in the polymer of the frame surrounded by the existing texture.
The model 19 had another feature change from the 17 to add points towards those required for importation into the U.S. The otherwise smooth trigger of the model 17 was replaced with a serrated version. All Glock pistols the size of the model 19 or smaller were fitted with serrated triggers for importation, although it’s not uncommon for their owners to prefer the smoother trigger and retrofit the parts since they are interchangeable. Another key difference between the models 17 and 19 is the geometry of the barrel lug and matching locking piece inside the frame. They are positioned differently which is why barrels are not interchangeable between the full sized and compact frames. This distinction remains in subsequent generations and models/calibers.
Generation 2 Glock Features
Because the Glock 17 preceded the Glock 19, there was initially no need to distinguish the two frames by markings. In fact, the very first Glock 19 pistols (1st generation) were actually made from Glock 17 frames that were trimmed to accommodate the smaller slide and magazine. An apparent mold mark on the left front corner of the trigger guard was eventually used for a marking location indicating which frame was being produced. This subsequent mold mark consists of a circular cartouche with the number 17 or 19 depending on the frame (earlier model 17’s had no such mark).
As has been described above, the main change that constitutes the generation 2 models is the retexturing of the grip surface. This rectangular pattern grip checkering on the front and back of the grip is often referred to as “grenade” checkering. Early generation 2 pistols were model 17’s and 19’s that retained the two single line grip cartouches on the right side, the 17/19 mold marks on the left, and Austrian proof marks of the generation 1 models, but not all had the silver colored serial number insert plate.
Around 1990 and about half-way through the two-letter serial number ranges, Glock started importing the models 20 (10mm), 21 (.45 ACP), 22, and 23 (both .40 S&W). By this time, the Austrian proof marks and the 17/19 mold mark were no longer present. The models 22 and 23 are essentially the .40 S&W versions of the 17 and 19 respectively; however, the more powerful cartridge forced a design change that added an additional pin to retain the locking piece in the frame. Some rare and early versions of these pistols may not have had the additional (3rd) pin. The models 20 and 21 were the first of the wide frame sizes made to accommodate the 10mm Auto and .45 ACP cartridges, respectively. All of these models are 2nd generation or later with both locking block pins in their design.
Prior to reaching the end of the two-letter serial number ranges, a second line was added to the upper cartouche on the grip of the pistol which now read:
MADE IN AUSTRIA
GLOCK, INC., SMYRNA, GA.
Right around the time of the roll over from two-letter serial numbers to three-letter series, the internal parts of the pistol changed from being mostly black in color to silver. This feature is not always a reliable one to consider because older guns receiving factory or armorer upgrades often have newer silver colored parts including some early upgrades to pre-EH### pistols that required an enhanced trigger bar that would increase the sear/striker engagement. These improved early trigger bars had a “+” stamped on the top rear portion near the area of striker engagement. While this upgraded trigger bar had a distinct shape, this author has seen at least one example of an earlier shaped part that has a bronze/gold color.
Shortly after the change from two-letter to three-letter serial numbers, a second line was added to the lower cartouche on the grip with two additional patent numbers. The next internal upgrade in this approximate chronology was angled cuts made to the interior of the frame to relieve the back two corners where the locking piece sits. Without this modification, those two corners were prone to the initiation of vertical cracks in the polymer due to the repeated impact of the corners of the metal locking piece to the frame. The relief cuts seemed to prevent the occurrence and could also be added to older models after the cracks had begun (essentially removing the cracks in the process of making the cuts at their location).
As with other internal upgrades, because these were often done by the factory after production, their presence tells less about the age of the pistol than their absence. Hypothetically, were the people at Glock, Inc. to discover an old batch of early generation 2 serialized frames; they would surely complete these upgrades before assembling them into pistols to be sold as new. Likewise, pistols returned to the factory as trade-in towards new models might also have similar upgrades.
The list of generation 2 changes above can be described sequentially based on the assumption of the serial numbers being sequential although this may not strictly be true. A more accurate description would be to say the changes listed here occurred during a watershed period during the middle of the second generation. The change from black internal parts to silver upgrade parts, the locking piece relief cuts, and the addition of a second line of text of the lower cartouche are all relatively contemporary changes roughly coinciding with the change from the two-letter to three-letter serial number range. Also in this time frame, the spring and guide rod assembly was upgraded to a one piece unit.
A few years later, in 1994, Glock began importing the model 24, which is essentially the 2nd generation equivalent of the 17L described earlier chambered in .40 S&W. With the exception of custom marked guns, all model 24’s and all subsequent model numbers have at least three letters in the serial number range. Some time later the angle of the right rear surface of the ejection port was changed from a 90 degree angle to something slightly larger. This change occurred between the introduction of the model 24 and the subcompact models 26 and 27 in 9mm and .40 S&W respectively. What this means is that one may encounter a model 24 with the earlier 90 degree ejection port angle but all models 26 and later had the newer geometry.
The early model 26 and 27 pistols were the first to incorporate finger grooves in the front strap of the grip; however, these were not checkered like those that came before and after. It may be easiest to regard the models 26-28 with the smooth front strap as generation 2 because they are like the proto type for the generation 3 changes and appeared prior to the addition of the accessory rail that fully defines generation 3 guns. These first subcompact pistols incorporated the “thumb rest” feature at the top of the grip so they could be legally imported into the U.S. market. On the other hand, the large frame subcompact pistols, models 29 and 30 (chambered in 10mm Auto and .45 ACP respectively) were always produced with checkered finger grooves on the front strap and their ultimate upgrade to having an accessory rail occurred much later so it may be best to classify all of these in generation 3.
Generation 3 Glock Features
Generation 3 Glocks incorporated all of the feature changes listed above and changed very little in the years to come. A few early models of the .357 SIG pistols were made with finger grooves and no accessory rail (a.k.a. “generation 2.5”) but these can be considered rare. Additional models added after the switch to generation 3 included the 29 (10mm), 30 (.45 ACP), 31-33 (.357 SIG), 34 (9mm), 35 (.40 S&W), and the slim frame model 36 which was unique in that it was a .45 ACP pistol with the slide dimensions of the 9mm and a single stack frame that was even thinner! The models 37-39 were later introduced in the .45 GAP cartridge. These guns used the standard 9mm sized frame with a wider slide similar to the 10mm/.45 ACP models.
Towards the later years of the 3rd generation, some special versions of existing models were introduced along side the standard models. Versions of several models described as having a Rich Texture Finish (RTF) were made that incorporated a distinct texture on all surfaces of the grip and cosmetically unique slide serrations. These were not commercially successful and subsequently produced in smaller numbers.
Some of the larger 10mm/.45 ACP models were made with “Short Frames” (SF) that had a grip back strap/palm swell that was reduced in size. These models arrived around the same time as the addition of the accessory rail on the subcompact versions (29/30) and were marked on the right side of the frame above the trigger guard with a short cartouche bearing an “SF” embossed on the smooth polymer.
One smaller subset of these models is the Glock 21 SF with the larger 1913 rail built into the frame instead of the usual single notch accessory rail. These were made in anticipation of design features requested for a new U.S. Army service pistol competition. This particular model was made with a new ambidextrous magazine release that was very different from the previous designs. This system captured the magazine with a thin paddle on the forward interior of the magazine well and would not function with older magazine designs. For this reason, all subsequent magazines were made with this additional forward cutout, although the military competition never happened and these design features have not been repeated on subsequent models.
Around the time of the SF models, the serial numbers on Glock frames dropped the “US” suffix and all slide, frame, and barrel numbers were identical. This occurred before the arrival of the 4th generation designs or the U.S. made Glock pistols that appear to all use the longer four letter plus three number serial number structure. At present, both 3rd and 4th generation pistols are being made in the U.S. and Austria. The only technical difference between the two seems to be in the metal finish – the Tennifer process used in Austria has been replaced by a Melonite process for U.S. made handguns. It remains to be seen if this difference will distinguish the two products in the open market.

Glock Serial Numbers Single Letter Numbers

Glock Serial Numbers Single Letter

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